Going on Vacation? 3 Creative Ways to Stick To Your Fitness Routine

Vacation season is fast approaching and whether you're headed to the beach, hitting the big city or relaxing in the desert, one thing's for sure--you don't want your months of hard work to go to waste.

You may think cocktails and boardwalk treats mean you have to drag your workout routine with you on your mid-summer jaunt, but that’s not true. We’ve got plenty of ideas, from scuba diving to bike tours, all of which are high in physical benefits–helping you to sneak in your sweat session while maintaining that blissful vacation attitude.

1. Dive Deep

Turns out, scuba diving can provide you with more than just an underwater exploration adventure. Suit-up for a full body workout that incorporates cardio, strengthening and yes–even Zen–benefits. We caught up with Theresa Kaplan, Director of Communications for PADI Americas, one of the largest diving companies on the globe (their classes range from entry-level training sessions to advanced diving techniques–even an underwater photography class!)

A life-long diver herself, Kaplan believes scuba diving is a perfect way to incorporate and adventurous workout into your vacation plans. “In addition to providing a tranquil escape, scuba diving feeds my need for adventure while keeping me fit at the same time,” Kaplan says. “Diving serves as a great method to burn calories, tone muscles and improve breathing. With more than 6,000 dive centers and resorts worldwide, PADI offers countless opportunities to get away and stay active at the same time.” Whether you’re sunning yourself in the Bahamas or having a staycation , there’s probably a PADI dive center near you. Sign up now and you’ll be slipping on your flippers before you know it!

2. Sightsee By Bike Instead of soaking in the city from the inside of your car, scope out a bike tour in your destination of choice. Not only does biking have mega fitness benefits (sculpted legs come to mind), but enjoying the city at a slower pace will allow you to soak in the culture (and pull over quick for photo-ops!)

Can’t find a pre-planned tour in your area? Head to your nearest bike rental shop and download the touringZ app for your Smartphone. Not only does it include instructional tours to some of the hottest vacation destinations, but it also features suggestions and tours made by previous users, ensuring that you won’t miss a sight–whether that includes an ocean sunset or a colossal ball of yarn.

3. Get Adventurous!

There are a myriad of choices that fit the bill, from zip lining (a suspended cable mounted on an incline which are often times part of a challenging ropes course set-up) to paddle boarding (a celeb favorite!). Whatever your style, incorporating fun, heart-pumping activities into your vacation is great way to ensure you won’t miss a second of the fun–or gain a pound!